Unpacking the Socio-Economic Effects of Perennial Flooding in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality, Ghana

Flooding is the most common natural disaster and the leading cause of death worldwide, with impacts varying by location, intensity, and susceptibility. This study examined the socio-economic effects of frequent floods in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality. The research used a mixed-method approach, collecting data through questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and Focus Group Discussions with 398 community respondents and institutional participants. The results showed that recurring floods cause significant losses, including homes, crops, animals, and lives, leading to family displacement. The socio-economic consequences include widespread poverty, hunger, malnutrition, school dropout, and loss of social connections. The frontline organisations worked together effectively, but the lead organisation, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), lacked sufficient funding, hindering its performance. The study recommends that NADMO should be adequately funded, and the government should provide early-maturing seeds and fertilisers to affected farmers. Additionally, flood victims should be encouraged to use early weather warnings to help them prepare and build resilience.